UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak considering new rules to regulate AI amid concerns of ‘existential threats’
Rishi Sunak makes efforts to update AI regulations for ensuring public safety amidst rapid technological advancements.
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak aims to update his government’s guidelines around regulating artificial intelligence (AI) and its development, The Guardian reported May 26.
Earlier suggestions are out of date
The Guardian said that Sunak’s government published a white paper in March, but the suggestions in that paper are now out of date.
Now, Sunak’s government could tighten regulations in accordance with new developments. A government spokesperson said the regulations aim to ensure public safety, stating: “Some of this tech is moving so fast it’s unknown.”
Sunak met leaders from the AI sector, including OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis on May 24. He then met Google CEO Sundar Pinchai on May 26. After the first meetings, the government acknowledged risks, including “disinformation and national security” and potential “existential threats.”
While Sunak reportedly aims to create an international regulatory agreement around AI development, bipartisan MPs are focused on advancing legislation that would create rules for companies working with AI within the UK itself.
Either plan could lead to the creation of new regulatory bodies.
Other regions are regulating AI
Other jurisdictions have already attempted to regulate the industry. Italy was among the first countries to block ChatGPT in April before it reversed that ban in May.
Other areas, including Spain, France, and parts of Germany, have inquired into possible AI data protection and privacy violations. Europe is now attempting to broadly regulate the AI industry, as European Parliament announced an “AI Act” on May 11.
U.S. Senators also held a hearing on May 16, during which OpenAI CEO Sam Altman testified and advocated for the creation of AI regulations.